Hoyer Statement on the 50th Anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid

Statement

House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement today on the 50th anniversary of Medicare and Medicaid being signed into law on July 30, 1965:

"Fifty years ago today, President Johnson signed into law legislation creating Medicare and Medicaid. Since then, Medicare has provided a guaranteed health care benefit to millions of American seniors and those with disabilities, while Medicaid ensures access to affordable health care for our nation's most vulnerable populations. Prior to Medicare, seniors lived in fear of being unable to afford their rising cost of health care as they grew older, and many became impoverished once they could no longer work.

"I'm proud that Democrats were responsible for launching Medicare and Medicaid, and we have continued to strengthen and defend these vital programs. The Affordable Care Act has expanded Medicaid coverage to 13 million more Americans and enhanced Medicare benefits, lowering seniors' out-of-pocket costs and improving health care quality. It has also helped slow the growth in Medicare spending to its lowest rate in decades.

"Democrats will continue to fight for Medicare and Medicaid so that current and future generations can have the peace of mind that they will be covered by these programs when they need them."

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